DRC Proposes Exclusive Minerals Deal to the US Seeking Security Assistance

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has proposed exclusive access to its critical minerals for the US in exchange for security assistance to combat a rebellion allegedly supported by Rwanda. The DRC seeks an urgent meeting between its President and US President Trump. This deal aims to provide US companies with privileged access to essential minerals while addressing challenges related to corruption and human rights.

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has proposed a strategic offer to the United States, seeking to provide exclusive access to its critical minerals and infrastructure projects, as reported by Bloomberg. This request is coupled with a plea for security assistance to address a rebellion allegedly backed by Rwanda. DRC’s President Felix Tshisekedi has called for an urgent meeting with US President Donald Trump to discuss the matter further.

The proposed agreement aims to furnish US companies with privileged access to essential minerals crucial for the global energy transition. A letter to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasizes the DRC’s urgent need for support amid ongoing internal conflicts. Currently, the mining sector, notably a significant source of copper, is dominated by Chinese interests, prompting Congo to seek diversification of economic alliances and reduce Chinese influence within its borders.

In this partnership proposal, US companies would receive operational control, exclusive extraction and export rights, involvement in a deep-water port project, and collaboration in establishing a strategic mineral stockpile. In return for these economic opportunities, the US would commit to providing military training and equipment, alongside security assistance that includes access to military bases for the protection of strategic resources.

A business group advocating for US-Africa relations and support for DRC stated, “As the world’s largest supplier of cobalt and a major producer of lithium, tantalum and uranium, the DRC’s resources are integral to US industrial competitiveness and national security.” The US State Department has shown a willingness to explore potential partnerships in the mining sector, viewing it as an opportunity to boost both nations’ economies.

Nevertheless, the likelihood of this deal remains uncertain. Past efforts by the Biden administration to engage US companies with DRC’s mineral wealth were hampered by concerns regarding corruption, environmental impacts, and labor issues. Historically, the US has also been cautious in extending military support to the DRC due to allegations of human rights violations involving their military forces.

Joshua Walker, a program director at the Congo Research Group at New York University, acknowledged the complexities involved in renegotiating mining contracts and noted uncertainties surrounding the Trump administration’s ability to mobilize US investors. Additionally, the new administration’s commitment to address Rwandan aggression in the DRC is yet to be defined.

The letter disclosing this proposal, sent by lobbyist Aaron Poynton on behalf of Pierre Kanda Kalambayi, chair of the Congolese Senate’s Committee on Defence, Security and Border Protection, highlights Congo’s ongoing pursuit of a minerals-for-security arrangement. Moreover, in February 2025, the government of Congo initiated a state monopoly to oversee artisanal cobalt production and export.

In summary, the DRC’s proposal to the US involves offering exclusive access to its mineral resources in exchange for security assistance against internal conflicts. This initiative seeks to enhance US investment and participation in DRC’s mining sector while reducing reliance on Chinese interests. However, historical challenges regarding corruption and human rights issues may hinder the realization of this partnership.

Original Source: www.mining-technology.com